Find Your Swimsuit Confidence On the Inside!

I want to gain body peace and feel confident with myself, but I'm self-conscious because I have stretch marks on my butt and thighs and I don't know what to do about them. I want to go swimming in my bikini but they are the only things that are stopping me. I'm worried that my friends are going to make fun of me or comment on them. What should I do to feel more confident?

Ivonne

Dear Ivonne,

The first thing you need to know is that your friends are probably just as concerned about how they look in their swimsuits as you are. We all have little things here and there on our bodies that we don't like. True friendship is based on supporting and loving each other when we feel bad about ourselves. However, it is your job to do the base work. Don't let your stretch marks stop you from spending time with your loved ones. Swimming with friends or family should be about the fun you are having together. Focus on the things you love about yourself and on the fun you will have without being self-conscious. Why do your friends invite you to swim with them? They want to spend time with you because of who you are, not what you look like in a bikini. Also, buy swimsuits that you feel confident and comfortable in--that's the key to success. Finding the beauty within you is the first step to gaining confidence, after that enjoy yourself and have some fun!